Name: Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef (or plant-based ground); 1 can (15 oz) Manwich Sloppy Joe Sauce; 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup chopped onion; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

This Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich is the ultimate comfort food — hearty, cheesy, and packed with that sweet and tangy flavor I expect from a classic sloppy joe. By combining the iconic Manwich sauce with tender pasta, melty cheese, and savory ground beef, I end up with a cozy, satisfying dish that’s just as great for busy weeknights as it is for casual gatherings. It’s nostalgic, easy, and incredibly filling.

Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound ground beef (or plant-based ground)

1 can (15 oz) Manwich Sloppy Joe Sauce

2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

½ cup chopped onion

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

I start by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C).

While that heats up, I cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions, then drain and set it aside.

In a large skillet, I heat olive oil over medium heat, add the chopped onion, and sauté it for 2–3 minutes until it softens.

I add the ground beef to the skillet and cook it until browned, breaking it apart with my spoon. I season it with salt and pepper.

Then I stir in the Manwich sauce and let everything simmer for about 5 minutes.

I combine the cooked macaroni with the sloppy joe mixture in a large bowl and mix it all together.

I transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish and top it with cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.

I bake the casserole for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

After removing it from the oven, I let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a nice touch.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Calories: 390 kcal per serving

Variations

I like switching things up sometimes. Here are a few ways I’ve changed this recipe depending on what I have on hand or who I’m serving:

Swap the pasta: I’ve used rotini or penne instead of elbow macaroni for a fun twist.

Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño gives the dish a little heat.

Veggie boost: I often stir in some bell peppers, mushrooms, or even frozen peas before baking.

Different cheeses: I’ve swapped in pepper jack or Colby for a more complex cheesy flavor.

Meat alternatives: I’ve made this with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative with great results.

Storage/Reheating

When I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes or warm the whole dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through. If I want to freeze it, I assemble the casserole (without baking), wrap it tightly in foil, and freeze it for up to 2 months. I just thaw it overnight and bake as usual.

FAQs

How can I make this Sloppy Joe Casserole ahead of time?

I prepare the casserole completely up until the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When I’m ready to serve, I just bake it as instructed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

Can I freeze Sloppy Joe Casserole?

Yes, I can! I usually assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze it unbaked. When I’m ready to eat, I let it thaw in the fridge overnight and bake it at 375°F until hot and bubbly.

What’s the best pasta to use in this recipe?

Elbow macaroni is classic, but I’ve also had great results with rotini, shells, or penne. I just make sure it’s cooked al dente so it holds up after baking.

Can I make this without Manwich?

If I don’t have Manwich, I mix tomato sauce with a bit of ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and a touch of vinegar for a homemade sloppy joe flavor. It works in a pinch.

How can I make this casserole vegetarian?

I simply swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat substitute or cooked lentils. The rest of the recipe stays exactly the same and tastes just as hearty and satisfying.

Conclusion

This Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich is a comforting, no-fuss dinner that brings together bold flavors and melty cheese in a family-friendly bake. Whether I’m making it for a busy weeknight or prepping it ahead to save time, it’s always a hit. It’s rich, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable — a recipe I find myself coming back to again and again.

Recipe:

Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Halal

Print Recipe

Description

This Sloppy Joe Casserole with Manwich is a hearty, cheesy comfort dish combining classic sloppy joe flavors with tender pasta and melty cheese — perfect for weeknights or feeding a crowd.

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Season with salt and pepper.
Stir in the Manwich sauce and simmer for about 5 minutes.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the sloppy joe mixture and mix well.
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Top with cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.